Idaho Commission for Libraries

Important message regarding backpacks for Bright Futures School Visits

201301Feb

In recent years the Commission has provided branded materials for libraries that sign up for the Bright Futures School Visits program. These materials are distributed during visits at elementary schools in order to increase student participation in the libraries' summer reading programs. The last couple of years we provided branded drawstring backpacks that libraries could stuff with SRP info and hand out to each child, and we had arranged to provide backpacks again this year.

However, last week we were informed by our vendor that he was not going to be able to meet the terms of the contract and would not have the product ready in time. This product in the quantities we need requires several months turnaround time, so we are not able to secure another vendor for the project.

As an alternative we are producing coupons and providing books for those libraries enrolled in the School Visits program. Libraries will receive coupons to hand out to each child (grades K - 6 only). Children can redeem the coupons at their library for a free book. The Commission will provide an appropriate number of books for the library to have on hand when coupons are redeemed. The books will have an interest range from Kindergarten through sixth grade. More details about logistics will be sent to those libraries who apply for the School Visits program. To apply, please visit http://libraries.idaho.gov/landing/summer-reading. If you no longer wish to participate in this program please contact one of your summer reading coordinators.

Time constraints and funding restrictions limit the type of materials we can provide for School Visits this year; however, as one of our most important goals is to increase children's access to print materials and keep them reading over the summer, we feel this alternative supports the objectives of the program. We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience to your library.